What you’ll learn in this article…
- Massachusetts BCBAs must obtain a state LABA license in addition to national BCBA certification before practicing independently.
- ABA master's tuition in Massachusetts ranges from under $12,000 at public universities to over $38,000 at private institutions.
- BCBA salaries in Massachusetts consistently exceed the national median for comparable behavioral health occupations.
- All BACB-approved programs require up to 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours completed in person, even in online formats.
Massachusetts requires a state-issued LABA license on top of BCBA certification, a dual-credential rule that catches many applicants off guard. The state's strong demand for behavior analysts, fueled by insurance mandates and a deep special-education infrastructure, makes the process worth navigating.
Eleven universities across the state offer ABA masters programs, from public campuses in Lowell and Salem to private options in Boston and Springfield. Formats span fully online, hybrid, and in-person, with several designed for working professionals through evening or asynchronous courses.
The combination of a tight licensure process and high employment need means that selecting a program aligned with both BACB requirements and LABA eligibility isn't just an academic choice, it's a career prerequisite.
Top ABA Master's Programs in Massachusetts Ranked
Massachusetts is home to a strong selection of ABA master's programs that prepare graduates for BCBA certification and state LABA licensure. Whether you prefer a hybrid schedule near Boston, a fully online format you can complete from anywhere in the Commonwealth, or a campus-based experience with embedded clinical partnerships, there is a program designed to fit your career stage. The rankings below draw on institutional outcomes, program accreditation, and practical factors that matter most to working professionals pursuing board certification in 2026.
- ABAI accreditation and exam pass rates
- Graduate tuition and net cost
- Fieldwork and clinical integration
- Flexible delivery for professionals
- Institutional graduation and retention rates
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Independent program research
- Internal program database
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
UMass Lowell's hybrid M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies is an ABAI-accredited, STEM-designated program that blends asynchronous online coursework with afternoon and evening in-person classes. Students choose between an ABA concentration and an Autism Studies concentration, completing 39 credits in as few as two years. A federally funded partnership with Lasell University can cover full tuition for two years, making this one of the most affordable paths to BCBA certification in the state.
- 39-credit ABAI-accredited, STEM-designated hybrid program
- In-state tuition approximately $16,966 per year; no GRE required
- Full-time completion in two years with flexible part-time option
- Supervised fieldwork at affiliated agency sites included
- 64% reported BCBA exam pass rate
- Fully funded scholarship available through Lasell partnership
- Thesis or capstone pathway available
- Fall start with one annual admissions cycle
- Same 39-credit hybrid structure with autism-focused coursework
- Emphasizes applied and translational autism research
- Integrates DEIB principles and cultural responsiveness
- Thesis required for this concentration
- Supervised fieldwork at affiliated Massachusetts sites
- Late afternoon and evening class schedule
- Prepares graduates for both BCBA exam and LABA licensure
- No GRE required; scholarships and financial aid available
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies, ABA Concentration — Hybrid
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies, Autism Studies Concentration — Hybrid
Simmons University
Simmons University offers its M.S. in Behavior Analysis in both a campus-based format with evening classes in Boston and a fully online track that can be completed in 20 months. Both pathways are ABAI-accredited, require 40 credits and a thesis, and prepare graduates for the BCBA exam. Scholarships of up to 50 percent of tuition through the Future Leader in Behavior Analysis Award help offset the premium price point, and faculty assist students in securing practicum placements across the greater Boston area.
- 40-credit ABAI Accreditation Board-accredited campus program
- Part-time evening classes designed for working professionals
- Up to $20,000 in scholarships for qualified applicants
- On-campus research lab spaces and equipment access
- Up to 89% first-attempt BCBA exam pass rate reported in recent years
- Thesis research project required
- Transfer up to 8 credits from prior graduate work
- Practicum site support provided by faculty
- 40-credit online format completable in 20 months
- ABAI-verified course sequence; no GRE required
- 74% or higher first-time BCBA exam pass rate reported
- Future Leader in Behavior Analysis Award covers up to 50% tuition
- Faculty advisor guides thesis research
- Worksite in an ABA setting required from first semester
- Practicum orientation begins in term three
- Financial aid and scholarship opportunities available
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis (Campus) — On-Campus
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis (Online) — On-Campus
Western New England University
Western New England University's campus-based M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis stands out for its 97% BCBA exam pass rate and a deep clinical partnership with the New England Center for Children (NECC), one of the largest autism service providers in the Northeast. The three-year program follows 11-week terms across fall, winter, and spring, with every student completing a faculty-directed thesis. NECC employees may receive tuition support, making this an especially compelling option for professionals already working in western Massachusetts ABA settings.
- 97% BCBA exam pass rate, among the highest in Massachusetts
- Campus-based program with hands-on training at NECC
- Faculty-directed thesis research with doctoral-level mentors
- Three-year completion across 11-week terms
- Tuition support available for NECC employees
- Meets all BACB coursework requirements
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required for admission
- Employer reimbursement supported
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis — On-Campus
Assumption University
Assumption University's 43-credit M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis integrates up to 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours directly into the curriculum, one of the highest clinical-hour totals among Massachusetts programs. Recognized as a Tier 2A program by ABAI, it features small, once-a-week evening classes in Worcester and offers both capstone and thesis pathways. A unique NECC Fellowship provides tuition remission and research opportunities, and the Fall 2026 application deadline has been extended to June 30.
- 43-credit ABAI Tier 2A-recognized campus program in Worcester
- Up to 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours integrated with coursework
- Evening classes meet once per week; full-time or part-time pacing
- 67% reported BCBA exam pass rate
- NECC Fellowship offers tuition remission and research access
- Capstone or thesis option; no entrance exam required
- Graduates eligible for both BCBA certification and MA LABA licensure
- Fall 2026 extended deadline: June 30
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis — On-Campus
Regis College
Regis College delivers a fully online M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis that can be completed in as few as 16 to 20 months, making it one of the faster routes to BCBA eligibility in Massachusetts. The ABAI Accreditation Board-accredited program uses eight-week course blocks with live weekly Zoom sessions and small class sizes. A guaranteed field experience and practicum coordinator support ensure students can secure placements close to home, and military members and partner-organization employees receive tuition discounts.
- 33-credit ABAI Accreditation Board-accredited online program
- Completable in 16 to 20 months; eight-week course blocks
- $1,061 per credit with military and partner discounts
- Guaranteed field experience with practicum coordinator support
- Live weekly Zoom sessions plus asynchronous coursework
- No GRE required; minimum 2.8 GPA for admission
- Capstone sequence from assessment through evaluation
- One-course-at-a-time format for focused learning
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis — Online
Salem State University
Salem State University's hybrid M.S. in Behavior Analysis combines online coursework with on-campus experiences in Salem, supported by an on-site operant laboratory for hands-on research. The ABAI-accredited, 39-credit program can be completed in two years, and students create individualized programs of study with guidance from internationally recognized faculty. Graduate assistantships and scholarships improve affordability at this public university, which has been ranked among the top ABA programs in New England for overall value.
- 39-credit ABAI-accredited hybrid program at a public university
- Completable in as few as two years with flexible pacing
- On-campus operant laboratory for experimental research
- Individualized study plans with thesis or master's project option
- Graduate assistantships and scholarships available
- Internationally renowned faculty mentors
- In-state graduate tuition among the lowest in Massachusetts
- Prepares for both BCBA certification and LABA licensure
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis — Hybrid
Westfield State University
Westfield State University offers one of the most affordable ABA master's programs in the Commonwealth, with in-state graduate costs significantly below those of private competitors. The 48-credit M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis features a four-term practicum series, evening and late-afternoon classes, and both comprehensive exam and thesis options. Located in western Massachusetts, the campus-based program is well suited to students who want rigorous BCBA preparation at a public-university price.
- 48-credit campus-based program; among the lowest-cost in Massachusetts
- In-state tuition approximately $12,179 per year
- Four-term practicum series providing extensive applied experience
- Evening and late-afternoon classes for working professionals
- Comprehensive exam or thesis option
- Full-time two-year or part-time completion pathways
- Minimum 3.0 GPA and interview required for admission
- Up to 6 graduate transfer credits accepted
Applied Behavior Analysis, M.A. — On-Campus
Bay Path University
Bay Path University's fully online M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis stands out for its nine concentration options, ranging from autism spectrum disorders and verbal behavior to trauma-informed practice and organizational behavior management. The 48-credit program includes 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours, 102 hours of direct supervision, and a required applied capstone. Designed primarily for educators and clinicians, it is one of the most customizable ABA degrees available to Massachusetts residents.
- 48-credit fully online program with nine concentration options
- 2,000 supervised fieldwork hours with 102 hours of supervision
- Applied capstone project and comprehensive examinations required
- Concentrations include autism, verbal behavior, and trauma-informed practice
- Designed for educators and clinicians in ABA settings
- Prepares for BACB certification exam
- Evidence-based and ethical practice emphasis throughout
- Financial aid available; flexible schedule for working professionals
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis — Online
Endicott College
Endicott College's fully online M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis offers up to eight concentrations, including Autism and Organizational Behavior Management, and can be completed in approximately 27 months. Rolling admissions with three annual start dates provide maximum scheduling flexibility, while a free comprehensive BCBA exam review course is included for all students. At $682 per credit, Endicott is competitively priced among private online options in Massachusetts.
- 40-credit fully online program; completable in about 27 months
- Up to eight concentrations including Autism and OBM
- $682 per credit; no GRE required
- Rolling admissions with three start dates per year
- Free comprehensive BCBA exam review course included
- 55% reported licensure pass rate
- Thesis project required for all students
- Faculty with real-world ABA practice experience
- Curriculum tailored to autism spectrum assessment and intervention
- Online or hybrid format with practical application assignments
- One-time $1,000 fee covers essential online tools
- Same 40-credit, 27-month structure as general track
- Rolling admissions; no entrance exam required
- Prepares for BCBA exam under Pathway 2 eligibility
- Experienced adjunct faculty with autism-specific expertise
- Three annual start dates for flexible enrollment
- Applies ABA principles to workplace performance improvement
- Courses in performance management and organizational systems
- Suitable for professionals in business, HR, or clinical leadership
- 40 credits; fully online with applied projects
- Completable in 27 months with rolling admissions
- $682 per credit; no GRE required
- Prepares for BCBA certification
- Accelerated format designed for working professionals
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis — Online
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Concentration — Online
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis, OBM Concentration — Online
Northeastern University
Northeastern University brings more than 45 years of ABA instruction to its hybrid M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis, combining asynchronous online coursework with optional supervised fieldwork at sites across the Boston area. The 30-credit, 10-course program is the most streamlined option on this list, featuring small class sizes of up to 19 students and a professional portfolio capstone. The school-level median earnings ten years after enrollment are $92,538, the highest among the institutions ranked here, though program-level earnings data for this specific degree are not yet available.
- 30-credit hybrid program; fewest credits among ranked programs
- 45-plus years of ABA instruction at the graduate level
- Small class sizes capped at 19 students
- Asynchronous courses with optional synchronous discussions
- Optional Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork component
- Professional portfolio capstone; no GRE required
- Full-time and part-time enrollment options
- School-level median earnings of $92,538 ten years post-enrollment
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis — Hybrid
Cambridge College
Cambridge College's M.Ed. in Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis is a 38-credit hybrid program that requires students to be actively employed in an ABA-based setting throughout their studies, ensuring immediate real-world application of coursework. The six-term sequence covers behavior assessment, intervention strategies, ethics, and research methods, culminating in a fluency seminar that reinforces clinical competency. With spring and fall start dates, the program serves working behavior technicians and educators across Massachusetts who are ready to advance to BCBA certification.
- 38-credit hybrid program completed in six terms
- Requires active employment in an ABA-based setting
- Spring and fall start dates for flexible entry
- Curriculum aligned with BACB standards for BCBA eligibility
- Fluency seminar reinforces clinical competency
- Autism concentration with assessment and intervention focus
- Tuition approximately $18,378 per year
- Prepares graduates for Massachusetts LABA licensure
Master of Education in Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis — Hybrid
ABAI Accreditation & BCBA Exam Pass Rates for Massachusetts Programs
ABAI accreditation and a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) are not the same credential, and the distinction matters when you compare Massachusetts programs. Accreditation is a rigorous, program-wide review that signals sustained quality; a VCS only confirms that the coursework meets the BCBA exam content requirements. Both paths can lead to certification, but accredited programs carry more weight with employers and doctoral admissions committees. For a broader look at how these credentials fit into the overall certification pathway, see BCBA degree requirements and pathways.
Accredited and Recognized Programs
Massachusetts has a relatively strong roster of ABAI-accredited master's options compared with most states. Programs currently holding Tier 1 accreditation include:
- Simmons University (on-campus and online): Accredited (Tier 1)1
- Regis College: Accredited (Tier 1)2
- Salem State University: Accredited (Tier 1)3
- Assumption University: Recognized (Tier 2a)4
Tier 2a recognition at Assumption indicates the program has met ABAI's recognition standards, a step below full accreditation but still a meaningful third-party endorsement.
Programs in Progress or VCS Only
Several Massachusetts programs are either pursuing ABAI status or operating under a VCS approval:
- University of Massachusetts Lowell: Application under review (not yet accredited)3
- Endicott College: Application under review (not yet accredited)3
- Westfield State University: Pursuing ABAI recognition (not yet recognized)5
- William James College: Verified Course Sequence only6
A VCS-only program, like William James College, still qualifies graduates to sit for the BCBA exam, but you lose the additional quality signal that accreditation provides. If you enroll in a program with an application under review, ask the program director where they are in the review cycle and what happens if accreditation is denied or delayed past your graduation date.
BCBA Exam Pass Rates
First-time BCBA exam pass rates are one of the clearest outcome measures available, though they fluctuate year to year and reflect small cohorts at most programs. Recent published rates for Massachusetts programs include:
Program-level pass rates have not been published for every Massachusetts option. When a number is not reported, request it directly from the program. Strong programs track this data and share it without hesitation. A pass rate below the national average, currently hovering in the mid-60s, is worth asking about, particularly how the program supports exam preparation in the final semester.
How to Become a BCBA in Massachusetts: Step-By-Step
Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in Massachusetts involves both national certification and state-level licensure. Massachusetts is one of several states that requires a Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA) credential on top of your BCBA, so plan for one additional step after passing the board exam.
What to Expect in an ABA Master's Program
The core tension most applicants face is straightforward: how do you complete a demanding graduate curriculum and accumulate up to 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork while still paying your bills? Massachusetts programs have developed several structures to make that balance workable, but understanding what those structures actually require day-to-day will save you from surprises later.
Core Curriculum and Credit Load
Most ABA master's programs run between 36 and 45 credit hours. Coursework typically covers the fundamentals of behavior analysis, ethical practice for behavior analysts, behavioral assessment, intervention design, and research methods. Programs aligned with the BACB's fifth edition Task List sequence that content so each course builds directly toward exam competencies. Bay Path University, for example, maps its curriculum explicitly to the fifth edition Task List, while Simmons University holds ABAI accreditation, which signals that an independent body has verified the curriculum meets professional standards.1
Many programs offer a thesis track for students interested in research careers, alongside a non-thesis capstone alternative for those headed into clinical practice. The capstone route is the more common choice among students planning to work as BCBAs in school or clinical settings.
Supervised Fieldwork: Hours and Pathways
The BACB's fifth edition sets two fieldwork pathways. The standard pathway requires 2,000 supervised hours; the concentrated pathway requires 1,500 hours, with stricter conditions on how those hours are structured.1 Either way, the monthly cap is 130 hours, which means fieldwork runs at least 12 to 19 months alongside coursework. If you want a clearer picture of how that timeline plays out in practice, the BCBA certification timeline breaks down each phase from enrollment to exam eligibility.
Massachusetts programs structure practicum in different ways:
- Simmons University targets the full 2,000-hour standard pathway, integrating fieldwork into the degree sequence.1
- Assumption University aligns with Pathway 1 and covers the 1,500-to-2,000 hour range through shared supervision between university faculty and an onsite BCBA or LABA at placement sites, which include clinics, schools, home and community settings, and residential programs.2
- UMass Lowell builds six credits of practicum into its 24-month program, with a distinctive feature: many students complete fieldwork through paid employment at affiliated agencies across home-based, community-based, and center-based settings.3
- Westfield State University spreads practicum across four sequential courses (Practicum I through IV, totaling 12 credits) over its 24-month timeline.4
Program Formats for Working Professionals
Full-time students typically finish in two years. Part-time tracks extend to three years and are common among working RBTs who want to accumulate supervised hours while staying employed. Several Massachusetts programs offer evening, hybrid, or predominantly online formats designed around that reality. Accelerated options exist but are less common and demand careful time management given the fieldwork hour caps.
The practical upshot: before you enroll, confirm whether the program provides placement assistance or whether finding a supervised site is your responsibility. That single factor shapes how quickly you can move from coursework to qualifying for the BCBA exam.
Tuition & Cost Comparison Across Massachusetts ABA Programs
Tuition for ABA master's programs in Massachusetts ranges widely, from under $12,000 at public universities to more than $38,000 at private institutions. Online programs based outside the state can offer lower per-credit rates, but total costs depend on the number of required credits and any additional fees. The table below compares estimated program-level tuition for both Massachusetts-based and online programs open to Massachusetts residents, based on published 2025 and 2026 tuition schedules.
| School | Format | Credits Required | Per-Credit Cost | Estimated Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westfield State University | Campus | 48 | $181/cr | ~$8,676 |
| Salem State University | Hybrid | 39 | $240/cr | ~$9,360 |
| Cambridge College | Hybrid | 38 | $310/cr | ~$11,763 |
| Purdue Global (online) | Online | Not published | $420/cr | Varies |
| University of South Florida (online) | Online | Not published | $431/cr | Varies |
| Capella University (online) | Online | Not published | $490/cr | Varies |
| Ball State University (online) | Online | 30 | $500/cr | ~$15,000 |
| Assumption University | Campus | 43 | $360/cr | ~$15,470 |
| Bay Path University | Online | 48 | $316/cr | ~$15,162 |
| Endicott College | Online | 40 | $682/cr | ~$15,534 (fees may apply) |
| UMass Lowell | Hybrid | 39 | $610/cr (in-state) | ~$16,434 (in-state) |
| Regis College | Online | 39 | $1,061/cr | ~$17,910 |
| Western New England University | Campus | Not published | Not published | ~$18,210 |
| Arizona State University (online) | Online | 30 | $765/cr | ~$22,950 |
| Simmons University (campus) | Campus | 40 | Not published | ~$28,561 |
| Simmons University (online) | Online | 40 | $1,125/cr | ~$45,000 |
| William James College | Campus | 35 | $1,090/cr | ~$38,150 |
Questions to Ask Yourself
Comparing Online Vs. Campus ABA Programs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts students can pursue their ABA master's degree through fully online, on campus, or hybrid formats. Each delivery model has meaningful advantages, but one reality applies to all of them: the BACB requires supervised fieldwork hours completed in person, regardless of how you take your coursework. That means every student, online or otherwise, needs access to a qualified supervisor and approved practicum site in their area.
Pros
- Online programs offer scheduling flexibility that is ideal for working RBTs balancing full time caseloads with graduate study.
- Choosing an online program opens access to nationally accredited options beyond Massachusetts, often at a lower total cost.
- Several programs ranked on this page, including Simmons University and Bay Path University, offer online or hybrid ABA tracks designed for working professionals.
- Online learners can complete coursework from anywhere in the state, eliminating commute time and making rural access more practical.
Cons
- Campus programs build stronger in person supervision relationships with faculty who may also serve as BCBA fieldwork supervisors.
- On campus students benefit from structured cohort networking, which can lead to practicum placements and job referrals after graduation.
- Programs like Northeastern University, Western New England University, and others on this list offer on site practicum coordination that simplifies the fieldwork process.
- In person formats tend to provide more immediate feedback during skills labs and role play exercises, which can accelerate clinical competence.
Massachusetts BCBA Licensure & LABA Requirements
Massachusetts requires a state license to practice applied behavior analysis independently, regardless of whether you hold BCBA certification. The licensed behavior analyst vs board certified behavior analyst distinction matters here: the Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA) credential is issued by the Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions1 and represents your legal authorization to provide ABA services in the Commonwealth.
How to Apply for Your LABA License
The application process runs through the state's Health Professions Licensing Portal.2 You will need to gather several documents before starting:
- Official transcripts: Request these directly from your graduate institution demonstrating completion of your ABA coursework.2
- BACB certification verification: The board requires proof that you have passed the BCBA examination and hold current certification.2
- Background check: Massachusetts mandates a criminal background check for all LABA applicants.2
- Application fee: Submit the required licensing fee through the online portal.
The board reviews applications on a rolling basis. Processing times vary, so submit your materials well before you plan to begin independent practice. Questions can be directed to the board at (617) 624-6199 or [email protected], with offices located at 250 Washington Street in Boston.1
Renewal and Continuing Education
Your LABA license must be renewed every two years. Massachusetts imposes specific continuing education requirements to maintain licensure:3
- 30 total hours of continuing education per renewal cycle
- 3 hours in ethics
- 3 hours in supervision training
- 2 hours in domestic violence training
These requirements overlap with BCBA continuing education standards in some areas but include Massachusetts-specific mandates around domestic violence training that you will not satisfy through BACB renewal alone. Plan your professional development accordingly to meet both sets of requirements.
Moving to Massachusetts from Another State
If you hold an active behavior analyst license in another jurisdiction, Massachusetts does consider reciprocity. You will need to provide official documentation showing your current license is in good standing.4 However, reciprocity does not guarantee automatic licensure. The board evaluates each application individually, comparing your credentials against Massachusetts standards. Expect to submit the same documentation required of initial applicants, including transcripts and BACB verification, along with proof of your out-of-state license status. Some practitioners find the process straightforward while others face delays if their previous state had substantially different requirements.
Understanding that the LABA is separate from your BCBA certification is essential. Your BCBA demonstrates professional competency to the national credentialing body, while your LABA represents your legal right to practice in Massachusetts. Employers, insurance companies, and state agencies will expect both credentials to be current and in good standing.
BCBA and RBT Salaries in Massachusetts
Massachusetts BCBAs earn well above the national median for related behavioral health occupations, reflecting strong demand for board-certified analysts across the state. The figures below draw on federal wage statistics for closely aligned occupational categories, job-posting aggregators, and industry salary surveys. Because the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not maintain a standalone BCBA category, the table presents the best available proxies alongside recruiter-reported BCBA and RBT pay. Interpret the BLS rows as context rather than exact BCBA benchmarks.
| Role or Occupation | Source | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile | Mean | Employment in MA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCBA (all experience levels) | Industry salary surveys | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $86,418 | N/A |
| BCBA (entry level) | ZipRecruiter (2025) | N/A | $80,800 | N/A | $98,800 | $144,706 | $97,281 | N/A |
| Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) | Job-posting aggregators (2026) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $44,348 | N/A |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024) | $43,220 | $47,120 | $59,030 | $73,000 | $91,260 | $64,020 | 17,950 |
| Psychologists, All Other (BLS 19-3039) | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024) | N/A | $79,680 | $128,180 | $153,300 | N/A | $123,810 | 510 |
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024) | N/A | $73,670 | $87,060 | $132,840 | N/A | $102,440 | 3,470 |
BCBA Salary by Metro Area in Massachusetts
Because the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish a dedicated BCBA occupation code, the closest available proxy is the broader category of clinical and counseling psychologists, which captures many applied behavior analysts working in clinical settings. The data below, drawn from the 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, shows meaningful pay variation across Massachusetts metros. Boston offers by far the largest concentration of positions, while some smaller metros report higher median wages, a factor worth weighing alongside cost of living when choosing where to launch your career.
| Metro Area | Estimated Employment | 25th Percentile Salary | Median Salary | Mean Salary | 75th Percentile Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston, Cambridge, Newton | 2,600 | $79,560 | $87,060 | $102,550 | $132,850 |
| Worcester | 310 | $62,220 | $87,680 | $100,300 | $131,510 |
| Springfield | 190 | $74,380 | $105,300 | $110,110 | $151,110 |
| Amherst Town, Northampton | 80 | $69,440 | $99,820 | $99,220 | $127,120 |
| Barnstable Town | 60 | $64,690 | $64,690 | $87,240 | $95,480 |
| Pittsfield | 50 | $65,100 | $107,800 | $110,770 | $141,050 |
Massachusetts BCBA Earnings Vs. Program Cost at a Glance
Is an ABA master's degree worth the investment in Massachusetts? These key figures show how program costs stack up against earning potential and career growth for BCBAs in the state.
Frequently Asked Questions About ABA Programs in Massachusetts
Below are answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask about ABA master's programs in Massachusetts, BCBA certification, and state licensure. If you have additional questions, counselingpsychology.org offers detailed program profiles and career planning resources.
